I have a very similar issue. Mine as well started with a Knock Sensor failure that I let go for months. What I've discovered during the research of the knock issue was when the sensor goes into a failure condition the ECU put the A/F map into a rich condition to protect the motor. However this causes excessive fuel in that bank which causes the Cat to run extremely hot. Well in my case, after months of neglect, I now get Cat Efficiency codes...this week I'm getting a the cat replaced.
This may not be your case but it sure sounds a lot like the way my issues started.
This may not be your case but it sure sounds a lot like the way my issues started.